The word is out. The new 2003 3.2 TL Type-S is a pocket rocket. Perhaps that’s not a term to use for any Honda/Acura product above the modified Civic. But, this vehicle really moves, and it does so simply by a driver twitch. Pay attention when you’re accelerating in the TL Type-S because it is temperamental. Thanks to the VTEC V6 under its sporty hood.

Resembling its cousin Honda Accord Coupe, the ’03 Acura TL Type-S is a fun car to drive. November sales for the TL have increased in 2001 and 2002, breaking each year’s previous sales record. A different breed of animal, the TL combines luxury, performance and four doors all into one.

The TL is offered in two models: 3.2 TL and our test vehicle, the TL Type-S. New for 2003 is On-Star in TL’s equipped with the Acura Navigation System. According to Dick Colliver, executive vice president for sales, Acura’s goal each year for the TL is to "build on its core strengths. In 2002," notes Colliver, "we made the TL more aggressive stylistically and gave it a 260 horsepower Type-S sibling." For 2003, the TL is better equipped than ever.

Both 3.2 TL models are equipped with Acura’s 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. This semi-manual shifting operation allows the driver to simulate manual driving without the hassle of the clutch. This is especially welcome when in city driving situations. With the Type-S this is what’s needed to pull off the feel of a true performance sedan. One needs all the help she can get when managing this twitchy accelerator. While welcome in a performance vehicle, Acura’s light touch may cause whiplash in the un-initiated!

The 2003 3.2 TL Type-S is a blast to drive. We’d be hard-pressed to find even a die-hard RSX fan that thinks this isn’t a fun car to drive; in spite of the fact that it is a sedan. With the four-door performance sedans coming onto the market, however, sedan and performance are becoming a match made in heaven. Who wouldn’t want (and need) more space in their "performance" car?

Anti-lock brakes are standard on both TL models, as are the Bose 6-disc in-dash CD changer, AM/FM stereo, Automatic Climate Control System, power moonroof, keyless entry, auto-up driver’s window, heated front seats, leather seating surfaces and wood trim. To denote the Type-S model, though, the TL is trimmed with perforated leather seats, shift knob and steering wheel, metallic-face instrument panel and Type-S emblem imprinted on the shift knob.

The TL offers only one option: DVD-based Satellite-linked Navigation System, with six-inch screen. OnStar is also on those models equipped with the Navigation system. Other standard equipment on the TL models include Xenon headlights, traction control, dual-threshold front airbags, side airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist and emergency trunk release.

For 2003, TL adds two new exterior colors: Desert Mist (replacing Naples Gold ) and Royal Ruby (replacing Firepepper Red). Our test TL came in Nighthawk Black Pearl. We think it would be just as effective in red. TL’s competition includes Infiniti G35 sedan, BMW 3-Series